A University of Arizona College of Public Health photo
CHERAW, S.C. — The town of Cheraw Public Works Department has launched its Mosquito Patrol in an attempt to control the town’s mosquito population.
Mosquito larvae control has already been administered in all in-town neighborhoods with standing water, and spraying all areas within the town limits will begin by mid-June.
According to Public Works Director Donna Byrd, there are several variables that need to be in place prior to spraying. These include:
* wind cannot be more than 5 mph
* spraying cannot be done after rainfall due to residue runoff killing aquatic life
* and the temperature must be below 85 degrees.
Byrd also stated if the humidity is too high, the chemical will fall to the ground, and the chemical will be ineffective.
Byrd said the best times to spray are between 4 a.m. and 7 a.m. and that is the typical time she sprays the odorless chemical within the town’s various neighborhoods.
Byrd urges local residents to be aware of anything holding stagnant water including old tires, unwashed birdbaths, clogged rain gutters and plastic kiddie pools.
“Once the water becomes still, the mosquito will readily lay her eggs and will use any receptacle that is found on your property, ” Byrd said. “Any standing water should be discarded.”
For questions about your property or more information, contact Donna Byrd at 843-537-8430 or email her at dbyrd@cheraw.com.
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